A Grandparents & Carers Guide to a Wonderful Summer in Stroud

Spending time with children during the summer holidays is one of life’s greatest joys - but it can also feel a little daunting, especially when you’re trying to balance energy levels, budgets, and the wide range of ages from toddlers to teenagers.

If you’re a grandparent or carer in Stroud, then you can agree, we are lucky to be in a wonderful part of the country, rich with beautiful countryside, welcoming community spaces, and plenty of gentle-paced activities that suit both you and the children in your care.

This guide brings together easy, affordable, and enjoyable ideas—including indoor options - for all grandparnets, who may be taking care of their grandchildren over the summer holidays.

Enjoying Stroud Outdoors (At Your Own Pace)

You don’t need long hikes to make the most of Stroud’s scenery. Many outdoor spaces offer accessible paths, benches, and safe spaces for children to explore. 

Stratford Park, Stroud

• Flat paths, ideal for buggies and slower walking
• A well-equipped playground for younger children
• Plenty of benches for rest stops
• Open green spaces for picnics or ball games
• Cost-friendly tip: Bring a homemade picnic and a flask—simple pleasures children love. 
• Want to make a day of it? Head on over to Active Lifestyles for swimming, sports and soft play options - Click here to find out more about Active Lifestyles Stroud

The Stroudwater Canal Towpaths

• A peaceful, flat route
• Gentle strolls or short scooter rides
• Spotting ducks, boats, and wildlife
• Talking and connecting without distractions
•  Tip: Choose shorter stretches—little legs don’t need long distances to feel adventurous. 
• Find out more in our Buggy Friendly walks collection - Click here to view the collection

Minchinhampton & Rodborough Commons

• Open, airy landscapes for kite flying
• Grazing cows (supervised safely)
• Take a picnic to keep their energy going. 
• Stunning views with minimal steep climbing
• Tip: Visit earlier or later in the day to avoid the heat and crowds. 
• You can also pop on over to Winstone's Ice Cream shop to keep cool and make their day with an ice cream. 

Indoor Activities for Rainy Days (A Lifesaver!)

British summers are unpredictable, so having a few indoor ideas ready is essential.

Stroud Library (including all other libraries around the Stroud District) 

• A calm, welcoming space for all ages
• Story sessions for younger children
• Free book borrowing for all ages, including teens
• Comfortable seating and quiet corners
• A weekly event which will allow them to rotate books all summer long
• Perfect for carers: A gentle, slow-paced environment where you can rest while children explore.
• Find your nearest library - Click here to see what's near you

Museum in the Park

• Located in Stratford Park
• Free entry
• Hands-on exhibits for children
• Local history displays that older children may enjoy
• Tip: Combine with a short park visit to break up the day.

Soft Play Centre

• For younger children (0–8 years)
• Let them burn off energy in a safe, contained environment
• Gives you a chance to sit with a cup of tea
• Go Bananas is a fantastic soft play centre, having been refurbished in April 2026, it's bright, clean and inviting atmosphere is a great choice with the kids - Click here to find out more about Go Banana's and book your session.

Cafes with play areas

• Taking the kids to a café is always a highlight - for us as adults and them - especially if it has a play area
• Visit our 'Places to Eat' collection to find out where is local - Click here to head to the collection
• Many eateries will offer 'Kids eat free' or 'kids eat for £1' throughout the school holidays 

Home-Based Fun (Low Cost, Low Energy) 

Never underestimate simple activities at home

• Craft afternoons (colouring, sticker books, simple painting)
• Baking together (fairy cakes are always a hit)
• Puzzle and board game afternoons
• Film afternoons with popcorn
• Let older children help organise these - it gives them independence and reduces the pressure on you.

Activity ideas based on the children's age: 

Ages 0–4

• Sensory play (water trays, sand, bubbles in the garden)
• Local toddler groups or library story time
• Short park visits with frequent breaks

Ages 5–11

• Nature treasure hunts (collect leaves, spot birds)
• Playground visits with simple games (ball, frisbee)
• Beginner crafting or baking sessions

Ages 12–18

• Teenagers can be trickier—but they are still keen and grandparents can always get the best out of them by introducing new ideas
• Café outings and chats
• Canal walks or short bike rides
• Board games, quizzes, or movie marathons at home
• Tip: Let them choose part of the day’s activity—it helps them stay engaged.

Keeping Costs Low

• You don’t need to spend much to have meaningful days together.
• Pack lunches instead of buying out
• Use free entry locations (parks, library, museum)
• Look for local council-run holiday activities
• Share days out with other families or grandparents